JOHN G. PATON
Missionary to the cannibals of the South Seas
By Paul Schlehlein
Banner of Truth. 186 pages. £6.00
ISBN 978 1 848 717 657
As I began delving into a new book about the man who Spurgeon called ‘The king of the cannibals’, I wondered what new insights could be revealed.
I had read John G. Paton’s autobiography some years ago, but I was not disappointed by this fresh look at a great missionary. There is so much to challenge and encourage every believer in this gripping volume. Living in the comfort of 21st-century Britain, few of us can grasp what it would mean to risk our lives in order to witness to cannibals.
Sacrificial parents
We are taken back to Paton’s remarkable family home where such a godly pattern was set by sacrificial parents, whose great desire was for the glory of God. There is so much to learn here for Christian parents. Then as the young John fixes his heart on a life of service to his Saviour those early lessons keep him steadfast to that same glory of God.
The story is exciting, although with many sorrows and discouragements. But through all the twists and turns the sovereign hand of God bringing a people to himself can clearly be seen. The author does more than just tell the tale, however. In the second half of the book he guides the reader to take seriously the lessons to be learnt from such amazing circumstances.
I was thrilled, disturbed, encouraged and challenged. A book not to be missed for readers of all ages who are serious about serving the Lord.
